Sand Combined Used as an Analytical Technique to Make Sound Characterization in an Acoustic Room

Abstract

Decorative construction typically accounts for 20–50% of total project costs. China introduces energy-saving panels, primarily composed of sand particles, to reduce its energy consumption. Most importantly, it has the ability to efficiently resolve intricate acoustic issues with remarkable speed and convenience. This study focuses on sand-based energy-saving panels, which efficiently address complex acoustic issues while reducing energy consumption. Using Delany-Bazley empirical models and acoustic simulation software (Zorba, INSUL), four surface treatments (Plain-P, SA1, PF, SA2) were compared to optimize room acoustics. Results show that plain sand spray (Plain-P) exhibits the highest sound absorption capacity, with a noise reduction coefficient (NRC) of 0.85 and a sound absorption coefficient exceeding 0.9 in high frequencies. Simulation of rooms with sand-based wall coatings confirms its environmental friendliness and adaptability to curved surfaces, arched ceilings, and special-shaped walls. The results demonstrate that empirical models and simulation together improve the approach to studying acoustic parameters like sound absorption through sound impedance and propagation coefficient. Additionally, the material expresses excellent sound insulation, with an average transmission loss (TL) of approximately 70.71 dB. This research highlights the overlooked potential of sand-based materials, providing a practical solution for energy-efficient and acoustically optimized interior design, specifically emphasising a method that has not been paid much attention to.